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Ocean in a Bottle

Here's a science project that doubles as a fun craft. Create your very own ocean waves in a plastic soda bottle. Display for all your friends to see!

Age: 3 and up (This project is rated VERY EASY to do.)

What you need

Empty two liter plastic bottle with lid

Clear vegetable oil or mineral oil

Water

Funnel

Blue food coloring

Small star fish, shells and other sea creatures

One tsp glitter

White craft glue

Hot glue

What you do

1. Wash and dry two-liter bottle and remove all labels.

2. Fill bottle halfway with tap water.

3. Add a few drops of blue food coloring and swirl around to mix.

4. Add glitter.

5. Add sea creatures.

6. Fill bottle the rest of the way with vegetable oil using a funnel.

7. Be sure that rim and cap are dry, then apply white craft glue around the rim. Seal cap.

8. Use a layer of hot glue around the outer edge of the cap for added protection from leakage.

9. Turn bottle on its side and gently rock the bottle to create a "wave" inside your ocean habitat!

Helpful hints

* Use lightweight starfish, shells and other sea creature toys that can float. Test them first in a bowl or glass of water. Find these at your local craft supply store or discount department store.

* Make the ocean any color you choose! Blue is standard of course, but if your child's room is decorated with red and yellow, go with red food coloring. There's no rule that says your ocean must be blue.

* Small children will be mesmerized by this creation. They can help make this every step. Let them insert the sea creatures, hold the funnel and help add the tap water. In the steps that may be more difficult for little fingers, have them hold the bottle steady for you while you add the glitter.